18 Best Jessica Lange Movies: The Enigmatic Beauty of a Legendary Actress

1. Jessica Lange is an American actress who has been active in the film industry since the late 1970s.

She has won numerous awards, including two Academy Awards, three Primetime Emmy Awards, and five Golden Globe Awards, among others. Here is a brief introduction to some of her best movies.

Best Jessica Lange Movies

Overall, Jessica Lange’s career is filled with memorable performances in a variety of genres, from dramas to comedies to thrillers. She is a versatile actress who has won the admiration of audiences and critics alike.

Films at a glance

1. All That Jazz (1979)

All That Jazz is a 1979 musical drama film directed by Bob Fosse and starring Roy Scheider, Jessica Lange, and Leland Palmer.

The film is loosely based on Fosse’s own experiences as a Broadway director and choreographer and tells the story of a successful but exhausted showbiz director named Joe Gideon (Scheider).

As Gideon struggles to balance his demanding work schedule, his failing health, and his complicated personal life, he becomes increasingly obsessed with his latest production, a musical about his own life.

The film uses surreal imagery, fantasy sequences, and musical numbers to explore Gideon’s creative process, his relationships with the women in his life, and his fear of death.

All That Jazz was a critical and commercial success, winning four Academy Awards and earning widespread praise for its innovative style and Scheider’s powerful performance.

The film has since become a cult classic and is considered one of the greatest musical films of all time, known for its dark humor, provocative themes, and dazzling choreography.

2. The Postman Always Rings Twice (1981)

The Postman Always Rings Twice is a 1981 film noir directed by Bob Rafelson and starring Jack Nicholson and Jessica Lange. Here are a few details about the movie:

Plot: The movie follows the story of a drifter named Frank Chambers (Jack Nicholson) who stops at a roadside diner and falls in love with the owner’s wife, Cora Papadakis (Jessica Lange).

The two of them begin a passionate affair, which leads to a plot to murder Cora’s husband and collect the insurance money. However, their plan goes awry, and they find themselves trapped in a web of lies and betrayal.

Cast: The Postman Always Rings Twice features two of Hollywood’s most talented actors in Jack Nicholson and Jessica Lange.

Both actors give powerful performances, with Nicholson bringing his trademark intensity to the role of Frank and Lange portraying Cora’s desperation and vulnerability with great skill. The chemistry between the two leads is palpable, making their illicit affair all the more believable.

Reception: The film received mixed reviews upon its release but has since gained a reputation as a classic film noir. Critics have praised the film’s atmospheric cinematography, tense pacing, and strong performances from its lead actors.

The movie’s sexual content and graphic violence were controversial at the time of its release but have since become hallmarks of the film noir genre.

Overall, The Postman Always Rings Twice is a gripping and intense thriller that showcases the talents of two great actors. Its exploration of themes such as desire, greed, and betrayal make it a film that is still relevant and enjoyable to watch today.

3. Tootsie (1982)

Tootsie is a 1982 American comedy-drama film directed by Sydney Pollack and starring Dustin Hoffman, Jessica Lange, and Teri Garr.

If you like Jessica Lange’s performances, on our sister site AuteurGraph we have a profile page, a visual film timeline, and a ratings page that gives a tonne of info and data about their career in a visualized form.

The film tells the story of Michael Dorsey (Hoffman), a talented but difficult-to-work-with actor who decides to dress up as a woman in order to land a role on a popular soap opera.

As his alter-ego, Dorothy Michaels, Michael becomes a sensation on the show and quickly finds himself navigating the complex world of soap operas, all while trying to keep his true identity a secret.

Along the way, he develops feelings for his co-star, Julie (Lange), who believes he is a woman.

The film was praised for its clever screenplay, strong performances, and nuanced exploration of gender roles and relationships.

It was a critical and commercial success, earning ten Academy Award nominations and winning Best Supporting Actress for Lange and Best Adapted Screenplay for Larry Gelbart, Murray Schisgal, and Don McGuire.

Tootsie remains a beloved classic of the comedy-drama genre, and a testament to the enduring appeal of stories about self-discovery, acceptance, and the power of love.

4. Frances (1982)

Frances is a 1982 biographical drama film directed by Graeme Clifford and starring Jessica Lange in the title role.

The film tells the story of Frances Farmer, a talented actress from Seattle who was institutionalized and subjected to electroshock therapy after a series of personal and professional setbacks in Hollywood during the 1930s and 1940s.

Lange delivers a powerful and convincing performance as Farmer, capturing her rebellious spirit, her fierce independence, and her struggles with mental illness and the constraints of the Hollywood system.

The film depicts Farmer’s journey from a young and ambitious actress to a troubled and misunderstood figure, who eventually finds some measure of peace and redemption through her love for the arts and her family.

Frances received critical acclaim upon its release, with many praising Lange’s performance and the film’s honest and uncompromising portrayal of mental illness and the pressures of fame.

It is a moving and thought-provoking film that explores complex themes of identity, creativity, and the human spirit, and is a must-watch for fans of Jessica Lange and biographical dramas.

5. Country (1984)

Country is a 1984 drama film directed by Richard Pearce and starring Jessica Lange, Sam Shepard, and Wilford Brimley.

The film tells the story of a struggling farm family in Iowa who are faced with the challenges of economic hardship and the threat of losing their farm due to foreclosure.

Jessica Lange delivers a powerful and nuanced performance as the wife and mother of the family, who takes on a leadership role in the fight to save their farm.

Sam Shepard delivers a subtle and understated performance as her husband, who is conflicted about how to respond to the crisis.

The film is a powerful exploration of family, community, and the struggles of rural life, and it presents a stark and honest portrayal of the challenges facing farmers in America during the 1980s.

Country is a compelling and emotionally resonant film that tackles important social and economic issues, and it offers a thoughtful and compassionate perspective on the lives of rural Americans.

It is a must-see for anyone interested in the struggles of rural communities, the challenges of economic hardship, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

6. Far North (1988)

Far North is a 1988 drama film directed by Sam Shepard and starring Jessica Lange, Charles Durning, and Tess Harper.

The film tells the story of two sisters, played by Lange and Harper, who live in a remote part of Alaska and struggle to survive in the harsh and unforgiving environment.

Lange’s character, Kate, is a fiercely independent woman who lives a solitary life with her young daughter.

When her younger sister, Rita (Harper), comes to visit, the two women must confront their past and their complicated relationship, which has been strained by years of distance and resentment.

As the sisters try to reconcile and rebuild their bond, they must also contend with the challenges of living in such a remote and inhospitable place, including the constant threat of danger from the elements and from wild animals.

Far North was praised for its stunning visuals and its poignant and emotional portrayal of the complex relationship between two sisters. The film also received acclaim for its nuanced and authentic depiction of life in rural Alaska, and for its strong performances from its lead actors.

While Far North did not receive a wide theatrical release, it has since become a cult classic and is considered a hidden gem of 1980s cinema. The film is a powerful exploration of family, survival, and the enduring bonds that can connect us across great distances and difficult circumstances.

7. Music Box (1989)

Music Box is a 1989 legal drama film directed by Costa-Gavras and starring Jessica Lange. The film tells the story of a Hungarian immigrant named Mike Laszlo who is accused of being a war criminal and is brought to trial in the United States.

Lange plays the role of Ann Talbot, the defense attorney who must navigate the complex legal and emotional terrain of the case.

Here are three reasons to watch Music Box:

Compelling story: Music Box is based on a real-life case of a Hungarian man accused of being a Nazi war criminal. The film explores themes of guilt, responsibility, and justice, and is a thought-provoking exploration of the dark history of the Holocaust.

Strong performances: Jessica Lange delivers a powerful performance as Ann Talbot, the determined defense attorney who must unravel the truth behind her father’s past. The supporting cast, which includes Armin Mueller-Stahl as Mike Laszlo, also delivers strong performances.

Thought-provoking themes: Music Box raises important questions about the nature of justice and responsibility, and asks whether individuals can be held accountable for the actions of their country or their community.

The film also explores the impact of trauma and memory on individuals and families, and the difficulties of reconciling with the past.

8. Cape Fear (1991)

Cape Fear is a 1991 psychological thriller directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Robert De Niro, Nick Nolte, and Jessica Lange. It is a remake of the 1962 film of the same name, directed by J. Lee Thompson.

The film follows the story of Sam Bowden (Nolte), a successful lawyer who is stalked and terrorized by Max Cady (De Niro), a violent criminal whom Bowden helped to convict years earlier.

As Cady begins to target Bowden’s family, including his wife Leigh (Lange) and teenage daughter Danielle (Juliette Lewis), Bowden realizes that he must confront his own past mistakes and find a way to stop Cady before it’s too late.

Cape Fear was a critical and commercial success, earning two Academy Award nominations and widespread praise for its intense performances, gripping plot, and Scorsese’s masterful direction.

De Niro’s portrayal of Cady, in particular, is considered one of his most iconic and terrifying roles. The film has since become a classic of the thriller genre and remains a popular favorite among fans of suspenseful cinema.

9. Night and the City (1992)

Night and the City (1992) is Irwin Winkler’s New York remake of the 1950 Jules Dassin noir, with a Richard Price screenplay. Robert De Niro plays Harry Fabian, a hustling lawyer who tries to reinvent himself as a boxing promoter; Jessica Lange is Helen, the married waitress he is involved with while her husband Phil (Cliff Gorman) runs the bar Harry hangs in.

The plot stays close to the Kersh/Dassin DNA—ambition, double-crosses, loan sharks, a fight that collapses—but the texture is early-’90s Manhattan hustle rather than postwar London. Lange’s Helen is not a supporting afterthought: she is the film’s emotional counterweight, negotiating escape from a bad marriage while Harry’s schemes tighten around both of them. Alan King and Eli Wallach round out the pressure from the fight world and the street.

This is the Lange/De Niro remake, not the Widmark 1950 classic (same title, different city, different decade). Watch it for Lange’s steel-and-weariness opposite De Niro’s motor-mouthed Fabian, and for how Price’s dialogue keeps the noir engine turning without pastiche.

10. Losing Isaiah (1993)

Losing Isaiah is a 1993 American drama film directed by Stephen Gyllenhaal and starring Jessica Lange, Halle Berry, and David Strathairn.

The film tells the story of a young African-American boy named Isaiah, who is born addicted to crack cocaine and is subsequently adopted by a white family.

When Isaiah’s biological mother, Khaila Richards (Berry), gets clean and tries to reclaim her son, a custody battle ensues.

As Khaila fights to regain custody, the white adoptive mother, Margaret Lewin (Lange), struggles to hold onto the child she has raised as her own.

The film was praised for its honest and nuanced portrayal of the complexities of adoption, race, and motherhood. It was also notable for featuring two strong female leads, Lange and Berry, in emotionally charged roles.

While the film received mixed reviews from critics, it was a modest box office success and has remained a thought-provoking exploration of some of the most difficult issues in American society.

Overall, Losing Isaiah is a powerful and moving drama that raises important questions about family, identity, and the bond between mothers and their children.

11. Rob Roy (1995)

Rob Roy is a 1995 historical drama film directed by Michael Caton-Jones and starring Liam Neeson in the title role. The film is loosely based on the life of Robert Roy MacGregor, a Scottish clan leader and folk hero who lived in the 18th century.

The film tells the story of Rob Roy, who is caught up in a bitter feud between his clan and a local aristocrat, the Marquess of Montrose, over land and money.

Rob Roy is forced to go into hiding after being betrayed by his trusted friend, Archibald Cunningham, and sets out to clear his name and restore his honor.

Liam Neeson delivers a commanding and nuanced performance as Rob Roy, capturing the character’s charisma, courage, and sense of justice.

The film is visually stunning, with breathtaking landscapes and well-choreographed action sequences. It also features a talented supporting cast, including Jessica Lange, who plays Rob Roy’s wife Mary.

Rob Roy received critical acclaim for its performances, direction, and screenplay, which deftly blends action, drama, and romance. It is a must-watch for fans of historical dramas and those who enjoy epic tales of honor, loyalty, and justice.

12. A Thousand Acres (1997)

A Thousand Acres is a 1997 drama film directed by Jocelyn Moorhouse and starring Michelle Pfeiffer, Jessica Lange, and Jason Robards.

The film is based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel of the same name by Jane Smiley, which is a modern retelling of William Shakespeare’s play King Lear.

The film tells the story of a family of farmers in Iowa who are torn apart by greed, betrayal, and the legacy of the past. Michelle Pfeiffer delivers a powerful performance as the eldest daughter, who struggles to reconcile her loyalty to her family with her own desires and ambitions.

Jessica Lange is equally impressive as her sister, who harbors a dark secret and a burning resentment towards their father (played by Jason Robards).

The film is a powerful exploration of family dynamics, the legacy of abuse and trauma, and the ways in which people are shaped by their environment and their relationships.

It offers a poignant and thought-provoking commentary on the struggles of rural America, the complexities of family relationships, and the search for identity and meaning in a world that can be cruel and unforgiving.

A Thousand Acres is a must-see for anyone interested in powerful dramas that explore complex human relationships and the struggles of rural communities.

It is a poignant and emotionally resonant film that offers a fresh and insightful perspective on the themes and motifs of Shakespeare’s King Lear.

13. Hush (1998)

Hush is a 1998 psychological thriller directed by Jonathan Darby and starring Jessica Lange, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Johnathon Schaech.

The film centers around a young married couple, Jackson (Schaech) and Helen (Paltrow), who move into a luxurious home in the countryside to start their new life together.

However, their idyllic existence is soon disrupted by the arrival of Jackson’s overbearing mother, Martha (Lange), who disapproves of Helen and becomes increasingly controlling and manipulative.

As tensions rise and secrets are revealed, Helen begins to suspect that Martha may be hiding a dark and dangerous past.

Hush was praised for its intense and suspenseful storytelling, as well as for the strong performances of its lead actors, particularly Lange, who was noted for her chilling portrayal of the overbearing and sinister Martha.

While Hush received mixed reviews from critics, it remains a popular and memorable entry in the psychological thriller genre. The film’s exploration of family dysfunction and manipulation, as well as its themes of trust and deception, continue to resonate with audiences today.

14. Titus (1999)

Titus is a 1999 film adaptation of William Shakespeare’s play Titus Andronicus, directed by Julie Taymor. The film stars Anthony Hopkins, Jessica Lange, and Alan Cumming, among others, and is known for its striking visuals and bold interpretation of the source material.

Here are three reasons to watch Titus:

Bold visuals: Julie Taymor is known for her visually stunning productions, and Titus is no exception. The film features striking and surreal imagery that brings Shakespeare’s violent and gruesome tale to life in a way that is both disturbing and beautiful.

Powerful performances: The cast of Titus delivers strong and memorable performances, with Anthony Hopkins in the title role and Jessica Lange as the vengeful Tamora.

The film also features a memorable supporting performance from Alan Cumming as the scheming and sinister Saturninus.

Complex themes: Titus Andronicus is one of Shakespeare’s most violent and disturbing plays, and the film adaptation explores themes of revenge, power, and justice in a way that is both thought-provoking and unsettling.

The film raises important questions about the nature of violence and the lengths to which individuals will go to achieve their goals.

15. Masked and Anonymous (2003)

Masked and Anonymous is a 2003 drama film directed by Larry Charles and starring Bob Dylan, who also co-wrote the screenplay under the pseudonym Sergei Petrov.

The film takes place in a dystopian future where a dictator rules over a nameless country in chaos.

Centers around a benefit concert organized by a mysterious promoter named Uncle Sweetheart (John Goodman) featuring various musical acts, including Jack Fate (Dylan), a former folk singer who is released from prison to perform.

As the concert approaches, Jack navigates through the surreal and often dangerous world of the country’s political upheaval, encountering various characters played by a star-studded ensemble cast including Jeff Bridges, Penelope Cruz, and Jessica Lange.

Through his interactions with them, Jack begins to question his own role in society and the nature of freedom and revolution.

While Masked and Anonymous received mixed reviews upon its release and was a box office disappointment, it has gained a cult following among fans of Bob Dylan and experimental cinema.

The film is notable for its unique visual style, political themes, and unconventional narrative structure, as well as Dylan’s electrifying performances of classic songs such as Cold Irons Bound and Dixie.

16. Big Fish (2003)

Big Fish is a 2003 American fantasy drama directed by Tim Burton, based on the 1998 novel of the same name by Daniel Wallace. The movie stars Ewan McGregor as a young Edward Bloom, and Albert Finney as the older version of Bloom. Here are three reasons to watch Big Fish:

Creative storytelling: The movie weaves together a series of larger-than-life stories told by Bloom, and explores the power of storytelling and the way we remember our own lives.

The film’s fantastical elements and imaginative storytelling create a world that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.

Talented cast: The movie features a strong cast of talented actors, including Ewan McGregor, Albert Finney, and Jessica Lange.

McGregor delivers a charismatic performance as the young Edward Bloom, while Finney brings depth and nuance to the older version of the character. Lange is also excellent as Bloom’s wife.

Themes of love and family: At its core, Big Fish is a moving exploration of the relationship between a father and son, and the power of love to overcome even the most difficult obstacles.

The movie touches on themes of family, sacrifice, and the importance of living a life that is full of passion and adventure.

Overall, Big Fish is a visually stunning and emotionally powerful film that is sure to captivate viewers with its imaginative storytelling, talented cast, and moving themes.

Whether you are a fan of Tim Burton’s unique style or simply appreciate a well-told story, this movie is definitely worth checking out.

17. Broken Flowers (2005)

Broken Flowers is a 2005 comedy-drama film directed by Jim Jarmusch and starring Bill Murray as retired Don Juan Don Johnston, with Jessica Lange as Carmen—one of the former lovers he revisits.

Don receives an anonymous letter claiming he has a son; neighbor Winston (Jeffrey Wright) pushes him to track down old flames. Lange’s Carmen, now a closed-off animal communicator, is a cool, cutting stop on that road trip—not a missing credit on a Lange list.

Murray’s understated Don earned praise; the film won the Grand Prix at Cannes and remains a Jarmusch favorite. Lange’s brief, precise turn is why the title belongs here.

18. The Gambler (2014)

The Gambler is a 2014 crime drama directed by Rupert Wyatt, a remake of the 1974 James Caan film. Mark Wahlberg plays Jim Bennett, a professor drowning in gambling debt; Jessica Lange is Roberta, his wealthy, enabling mother.

As Bennett digs deeper with loan sharks, Lange’s Roberta embodies the family money and emotional bargain that feed his addiction—cold practicality mixed with damaging care. John Goodman, Brie Larson, and Michael K. Williams round out the pressure around him.

The film received mixed reviews, but Lange’s maternal steel is a clear reason it belongs on her list alongside the Wahlberg showcase.

3 Reasons To Watch Jessica Lange Movies

Powerful Acting: Jessica Lange is one of the most talented actresses of her generation, with a career spanning over four decades.

She is known for her ability to portray complex and layered characters with depth and nuance, bringing an authenticity and emotional intensity to every role she plays.

Diverse Roles: Lange has played a wide variety of roles throughout her career, from iconic characters like Blanche DuBois in A Streetcar Named Desire to comedic roles in films like Tootsie and Big Fish.

She has also taken on challenging and controversial roles in films like Frances and Titus, showcasing her fearlessness and range as an actress.

Awards and Recognition: Lange’s work has been recognized with numerous awards and nominations throughout her career, including two Academy Awards, three Emmy Awards, and five Golden Globe Awards.

She is widely regarded as one of the most talented and accomplished actresses of her generation, with a legacy that continues to inspire and influence actors and filmmakers around the world.

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Best Jessica Lange Movies – Wrap Up

Here are some of the best Jessica Lange movies of all time:

Tootsie (1982)

Frances (1982)

Blue Sky (1994)

Sweet Dreams (1985)

Music Box (1989)

Cape Fear (1991)

King Kong (1976)

Big Fish (2003)

Grey Gardens (2009)

A Streetcar Named Desire (1995)

Jessica Lange has been widely acclaimed for her range and versatility as an actress, earning numerous accolades throughout her career, including two Academy Awards, three Primetime Emmy Awards, and one Tony Award.

Her performances in these films and others have solidified her status as one of the greatest actresses of her generation.

Ready to learn about some other Film Movements or Film History?

Incendies: Context, Themes, and Style

No Fear, No Die: Symbolism and Interpretation

Frances Ha: The Meaning Behind the Moments

Lola: A Guide to Its Meaning and Impact

A Bay of Blood: Visual Style, Ideas, and Impact

Once Upon a Time in Anatolia: A Modern Appreciation

Demon Seed: A Guide to Watching It Like a Critic

Lone Wolf and Cub: The Final Conflict: A Modern Appreciation

Ex Machina: What Makes It a Classic

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